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2006 Mazda6 Mid-Size Sedan, Wagon and Hatchback
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PERFORMANCE
Although the acceleration on the automatic I-4 comes up lacking, the six-cylinder version in the Mazda6 lineup are definitely adequate.
The base four-cylinder sports a 2.3-liter, 16-valve Dual Overhead Cam (DOHC) engine has variable valve timing (VVT). The “little engine that could” puts out 155 lb.-ft. of torque (at 5,000 RPM) and 160 horsepower (at 6,00 RPM). Mazd6s sold In California, Vermont, New Hampshire Massachusetts and New York ' all of which have strict emissions standards 'have a special engine rating called Partial Zero Emissions Vehicle (PZEV). This drops the horsepower a small amount ' down to 153 ' and the torque and even smaller amount ' down to 151 lb.-ft. ' but the PZEV designation drastically decreases the amount of pollution it contributes to the atmosphere.
This PZEV designation is also found on the 3.0-liter, DOHC, 24-valve, V6 engine. Horsepower comes in at 215 (at 6,000 RPM), with torque totaling 199 lb.-ft. (at 5,000 RPM). Both engines have VVT and multi-port fuel injection.
The MazdaSpeed6 sedan is the newest addition to the lineup, and boasts a turbo-charged, four-cylinder engine that puts out 274 horses and comes in the Sport or Grand Touring editions. It reportedly clocks in at 6.4 seconds in 0 to 60 MPH tests; the s sedans clock in around 7.5 seconds for the V6 model.
Also offered is an all-wheel-drive version, but the Mazda6 comes standard with front wheel drive, like the rest of the series. Choose from a 5-speed manual (standard) or sport automatic transmission in all models. The Grand Touring editions have automatic 5-speeds with manual shift capabilities.
Ride and Handling
Though Mazdas aren’t known for their superior handling, they’re definitely not bad. In fact, we were quite pleased with the ride and handling capabilities. For families, the wagon’s extra space is incredibly convenient, and all models are a good choice for everyday driving both on city roads and highways.
The base Mazda6 handles better than its competitors ' Nissan Altima, Toyota Camry, and even the Honda Accord. So many vehicles in this mid-size category are as bland as white bread, but the fun-loving Mazda6 is more like an energy drink for the eyes -- and pedal foot.
The 6 wagon is similar to the Lexus is300 wagon; both are sporty and handle well, and can haul lots of stuff ' especially pets. You’ll just find a bit more refinement ' and a way cheaper sticker price ' in the Lexus.
The suspension system in all the models is the same, although the MazdaSpeed6 has a sport-tuned suspension. In the front is an independent, high-mount, double wishbone setup, with coil springs and a stabilizer bar. In the rear, the car has independent, E-type, multi-link suspension, also with coil springs and a stabilizer bar. A wider track and the addition of the stabilizer bars improve the stability further ' especially with the electronic traction control system (ETC). The turning radius is wider than last year, which is to be expected from the changes made for the 2006 models.
Safety
Mazda didn’t cut corners in the safety department, either. The Antilock Braking System (ABS) takes it one step further than many other class competitors with bigger disc brakes, Power Assist (PA), and four-wheel, four-sensor, 3-channel ABS. It also includes Electronic Brake Distribution, which balances the breaking power from the front to the rear.
The car is built with a Triple-H body construction that’s even stronger. Built into all doors (excluding the back-hatch on the 5-door model) are side beams, which help absorb much of the energy from a side-impact collision.
Inside the cabin, there are dual front airbags (standard on all Mazda6s), front-side airbags, and side curtain airbags (standard on every Mazda6 but the entry-level version.) Three-point safety harnesses safely hold every passenger in the correct position, and both front and rear occupants have whiplash-reducing head restraints.
The remote keyless entry has a myriad of goodies right at your fingertips ' door lock/unlock, auto open/close of the front windows, a trunk release and a panic button, just in case. And an anti-theft system is also included on all Mazda6 models.
The MazdaSpeed Sport edition bumps it up a notch, including an anti-skid system to help keep a grip on the road in those more extreme driving situations you’re going to want to put it in.
